Checklist for a basic warm-weather outing

You’re frantic. Panicked even. In exactly one hour, your troop is heading out the door on a warm-weather outing — and you’re struggling to pack. What clothes do you need to bring? How about extra gear?

No worries.

Just take a deep breath and use this handy checklist. In addition to the basic camping gear, you’ll also need:

Water. “Always pack enough water depending on the climate and the availability of fresh water where you’ll be. Here in the desert Southwest, we suggest bringing four liters for the day. That works out to about a liter for every 1 to 1.5 hours of hiking.”

Rain suit. “A good, quality rain suit will allow you to keep hiking and remain active around camp while still enjoying the experience.”

Boots. “When backpacking, I prefer hiking boots over trail runner-type shoes—safety is the issue. Also make sure your boots fit correctly and are well broken in.”

Backpack that fits. “Both internal- and external-frame backpacks work fine. The key is to test drive your pack on several short hikes before taking a long trip. This ensures that all of your pack adjustments are done properly.”

TWO THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED:

Personal blister kit. “Even with well-broken-in boots and socks that you have hiked in before, you can still get a blister. Being able to take care of blisters early can ensure that it doesn’t negatively impact your trek. I even carry a blister kit on day hikes.” A good blister kit will include moleskin, adhesive tape, safety pins and antibiotic ointment.

Parachute cord, 20 feet. “Parachute cord can be used for all sorts of things from backpack and tent repairs to a clothesline and replacement shoelaces.”

The scouts in my troop find it easier to pack everything in a large plastic, waterproof tub, and unload your sleeping stuff inside your tent. it is easier to transport when car camping. keep the tub outside of your ten with all your other stuff for the trip in it. in the morning, and at night, you can find all your stuff. keep iit sealed, until you need something to keep out animals and rain/dew.

Thanks. I just became a boyscout, so this was my first camping trip, and I was wondering what I needed because I we were not going to use a toilet. Instead, we dug those big ditches. But I do not see anything that is related to that in your list.

1st} medicated vasoline, its great to prevent blisters, prevent chapped lips, prevent heat rash/jock itch, put on minor cuts or burns;
2nd] Make a list for light camping, pack your pack, then take everything out and lighten the load some more; next repeat this over and over until its like a survival kit, now your ready to go

This is sure a step up from when I was a kid. Anyone who is reading this I reccomend you stay in scouts and persue a Military life. Im a 6 year Vet and the things Scouts have taught me have saved my life

Not every kid who has joined scouts has in mind the military, but that is not a bad choice for many, and my gratefulness goes to all members of the Forces, active and retired, however, there is kids who are gifted in other areas and would not choose that path.

take only what you need. a lighter backpack makes the trip a lot funner. for an overnight campout and 3 mile hike my badlands 2500 wieghed only 21 lbs and i was compfy in camp. thats with all my water, there was no water scource.